Publications
Publications found: 1555
Persistent Scatterers Interferometry Provides Insight on Slope Deformations and Landslide Activity in the Mountains of Zhouqu, Gansu, China
Wasowski J., Bovenga F., Dijkstra T., Meng X., Nutricato R., Chiaradia M.T., 2014, Persistent Scatterers Interferometry Provides Insight on Slope Deformations and Landslide Activity in the Mountains of Zhouqu, Gansu, China,
Landslide Science for a Safer Geoenvironment - Methods of Landslide Studies, edited by K. Sassa et al., pp. 359–364. CH-6330 Cham (ZG): Springer International Publishing, 2014,
Abstract
We present the results of Persistent Scatterers Interferometry (PSI) applied to investigate
slope instabilities in a ...
We present the results of Persistent Scatterers Interferometry (PSI) applied to investigate
slope instabilities in a remote high mountain region of Southern Gansu, known to be prone
to large magnitude (M7-8) earthquakes and catastrophic slope failures. The PSI processing
of high resolution (~3 m) COSMO/SkyMed (CSK) satellite images produced spatially
dense information (more than 1,000 PS/km2) on ground surface displacements in the area
of Zhouqu, a town located in the Bailong River valley. A substantial portion of the radar
targets showed significant displacements (from few to over 50 mm/year), denoting wide-
spread occurrence of slope instabilities. In particular, the PSI results provided valuable
information on the activity of some very large, apparently slow landslides that represent a
persistent hazard to the local population and infrastructure. Monitoring movements of large
long-lived landslides is important especially when, as in the case of the Bailong valley, they
are known to undergo periods of increased activity resulting in river damming and
disastrous flooding. Given the general lack of monitoring data on large landslides at
Zhouqu and on other similar major failures that are common in Southern Gansu, the PSI-
derived displacements offer unique information, which, following expert judgment, can be
used for preliminary wide-area assessments of hazards linked to landslide activity. Fur-
thermore, this study shows that with the high resolution CSK data resulting in high radar
target density, PSI can also assist in slope/landslide-specific assessments.
Land-Use Change and Shallow Landsliding_ A Case History from the Apennine Mountains, Italy
Wasowski J., Dipalma Lagreca M., Lamanna C., 2014, Land-Use Change and Shallow Landsliding_ A Case History from the Apennine Mountains, Italy,
World Landslide Forum 3 (WLF3), pp. 267–272, Beijing, China, 2-6 June, 2014,
Abstract
We investigate temporal variations in land use and landsliding in a small catchment
characterized by the ...
We investigate temporal variations in land use and landsliding in a small catchment
characterized by the predominance of clay-rich materials and known to be prone to shallow
slope failures. The results demonstrate a pronounced change from land use dominated by
grassland pasture (~53 % in 1955) to wheat-based agriculture (~74 % in 2011). The
temporal series of landslide inventories also indicate significant variations in landslide
activity in the same period. In particular, the highest susceptibility to landsliding has been
registered in recent years on the sown fields which had initially (1955) been used for
pasture and grazing. The data also reveal that with time the steeper and apparently more
landslide-prone slopes with grassland-pasture have been given over to new wheat cultiva-
tion. The introduction of ploughing for the new wheat cultivation on the often steep slopes
that had originally been covered by grass is considered to be a significant factor in the
increased susceptibility to landsliding. The negative impact on slope stability can be related
to the decrease in effective strengths of soil resulting from modification of the existing
cover from grass that is present all year to wheat characterized by a few month growth
period per year, which implies increase in groundwater levels, and mechanical disturbance
of soil caused by tillage. Finally, for the studied period (1955-2011) the local precipitation
data indicated high inter-annual variability without the presence of any statistically signifi-
cant trends.
Special Issue “The long-term geologic hazards in areas struck by large-magnitude earthquakes”
Wasowski J.; Jibson R.W.; Huang R.; van Asch T., 2014, Special Issue “The long-term geologic hazards in areas struck by large-magnitude earthquakes”,
2014,
Special Issue “The long-term geologic hazards in areas struck by large-magnitude earthquakes”
Wasowski J.; Jibson R.W.; Huang R.; van Asch T., 2014, Special Issue “The long-term geologic hazards in areas struck by large-magnitude earthquakes”,
Special Issue "The long-term geologic hazards in areas struck by large-magnitude earthquakes", pp. 109–110. Amsterdam_ Elsevier, 2014,
High resolution space- and air-borne imagery provides insight into slope hydrology and Instability
Janusz Wasowski, Marina Dipalma Lagreca, Caterina Lamanna, Guido Pasquariello, 2014, High resolution space- and air-borne imagery provides insight into slope hydrology and Instability,
5th international workshop of the EARSeL Special Interest Group "Geological Applications", pp. 35–42, Warsaw, Poland, 19-20.06.2014,
Remote Sensing of Landslide Motion with Emphasis on Satellite Multitemporal Interferometry Applications_ An Overview
Wasowski J., Bovenga F., 2014, Remote Sensing of Landslide Motion with Emphasis on Satellite Multitemporal Interferometry Applications_ An Overview,
Landslide Hazards, Risks and Disasters, pp. 345–403. Amsterdam_ Elsevier, 2014,
Abstract
Landslide hazard reduction can benefit from increased exploitation of affordable remote sensing systems, with a ...
Landslide hazard reduction can benefit from increased exploitation of affordable remote sensing systems, with a focus on early detection of ground deformations, long-term monitoring, and possibly early warning of catastrophic failure. Among several innovative space-based remote-sensing techniques, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and multitemporal interferometry (MTI) hold the most promise, because of its capacities and strengths_ (1) wide-area coverage (tens of thousands of square kilometers) combined with a high spatial resolution (up to 1 m for the new generation of radar
sensors) and hence the possibility of conducting multiscale investigations with the same data sets (from regional to slope-specific); (2) systematic, high-frequency (from a few days to weeks) measurements over long periods (years); (3) a high precision of surface displacement measurements millimeters-centimeters) only marginally affected by poor weather conditions; (4) cost effectiveness, especially in the case of long-term, large-area investigations (catchment to regional scale); and (5) integration of landslide monitoring (based on new satellite imagery) with retrospective studies
(archived imagery) to investigate slope failure history or landslide reactivation/acceleration processes. We illustrate the potential of MTI and explain how it can be used to detect and monitor landslide motion by considering applications in areas with a broad range of geomorphic, climatic, and vegetation conditions. The chosen examples of local-to-catchment-scale MTI case studies focus on unstable hill slopes and landslides in the Apennines (Italy), the European Alps, and on the island of Haiti. The potential of MTI is further assessed by also considering the strengths and limitations of
other innovative applications of remote sensing in landslide monitoring, which rely on several recent or emerging techniques_ Corner Reflector SAR interferometry, which exploits artificial targets installed on the ground and radar satellite imagery; ground-based InSAR; air- and ground-borne Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR); and air/space-borne image matching. These applications, however, typically focus on single failed slopes and their use for regular, wide-area mapping of ground surface changes is at present economically prohibitive. We foresee that MTI will make landslide monitoring more effective and more affordable in more situations, and will become increasingly more important in cases where little or no conventional monitoring is feasible (e.g., remote locations and limited funds). We also expect that the role of prevention in slope hazard management can be enhanced by capitalizing more on the presently underexploited advantage of MTI, that is, its ability to regularly provide vast amounts of quantitative information on slope/ground stability conditions in large areas currently unaffected (or thought to be unaffected) by landslides, but where the terrain
geomorphology and geology may indicate potential for future failures. Finally, we stress that high spatial and temporal resolution satellite remote sensing of ground deformations open new possibilities for landslide research and for more timely and detailed slope hazard assessment.
What we can learn about slope response to earthquakes from ambient noise analysis_ An overview
Del Gaudio V.; Muscillo S.; Wasowski J., 2014, What we can learn about slope response to earthquakes from ambient noise analysis_ An overview,
Engineering geology 182 (2014): 182–200. doi_10.1016/j.enggeo.2014.05.010,
DOI: 10.1016%2Fj.enggeo.2014.05.010
Abstract
Earthquake induced slope failures are responsible for a significant amount of life loss and damage, ...
Earthquake induced slope failures are responsible for a significant amount of life loss and damage, and their effective mitigation requires further advancements in our comprehension of slope behaviour under seismic shaking. One source of uncertainty in seismic landslide susceptibility assessment is the phenomenon of enhanced amplification of ground motion along down slope directions. This implies a strength demand beyond that estimated by standard slope stability analysis. An extensive accelerometer monitoring of slope dynamic response in areas exposed to seismic landslide hazard is unfeasible. An alternative approach can take advantage of recent development of reconnaissance techniques based on the analysis of ambient noise recorded by portable instruments. The most popular technique, known as Nakamura or HVNR method, consists in analysing H/V spectral ratios between Horizontal and Vertical components of Noise Recording, and allows the recognition of site resonance frequencies. The application of HVNR to complex site conditions typical of marginally stable slopes is often difficult and requires the development of "ad hoc" procedures both for acquisition and analysis of noise recording. Tests in different geologic and geomorphic settings show that an analysis of azimuthal variation of spectral ratios can reveal the presence and orientation of directional resonance, whereas the recognition of main resonance frequencies requires a proper selection of signals to be analysed. Efforts to evaluate amplification factors currently rely on numerical simulations, which in turn require S-wave velocity of slope materials. Ambient noise analysis in terms of velocity models can contribute through the inversion of H/V spectral ratios and surface wave velocity dispersion curves derived from the processing of multiple simultaneous noise recordings. However these applications require a correct identification of the nature of surface waves present in the noise recording. © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Introduction to Geohazards of Central China
Dijkstra, T. A.; Wasowski, J.; Winter, M. G.; Meng, X. M., 2014, Introduction to Geohazards of Central China,
Quarterly journal of engineering geology and hydrogeology 47 (2014): 195–199. doi_10.1144/qjegh2014-054,
The “geoethical promise”: A proposal
Matteucci R.; Gosso G.; Peppoloni S.; Piacente S.; Wasowski J., 2014, The “geoethical promise”: A proposal,
Episodes 37 (2014): 190–191.,
Evidence of hillslope directional amplification from accelerometer recordings at Qiaozhuang (Sichuan – China)
Luo Y.; Del Gaudio V.; Huang R.; Wang Y.; Wasowski J., 2014, Evidence of hillslope directional amplification from accelerometer recordings at Qiaozhuang (Sichuan – China),
Engineering geology 183 (2014): 193–207. doi_10.1016/j.enggeo.2014.10.015,
DOI: 10.1016%2Fj.enggeo.2014.10.015
Abstract
This work reports the results of an accelerometer monitoring aimed at revealing the seismic response ...
This work reports the results of an accelerometer monitoring aimed at revealing the seismic response of
hillslopes in the town of Qiaozhuang, in Qingchuan County, near the north-eastern end of the fault ruptured during
the 2008Mw7.9Wenchuan earthquake in Sichuan Province. Serious damage and slope failures were induced
by this earthquake in the town center and on the hills in the peri-urban zone. This suggested the possible occurrence
of amplification phenomena. Five accelerometer stations were emplaced at two topographic reliefs to investigate
their response to ground motion during the last part of the Wenchuan seismic sequence. About 50
aftershocks were recorded, whose magnitude (ML) varied between 1.2 and 5.5 and epicentral distance ranged
froma fewto 90 km. The accelerometer records provided evidence of directional amplification,whichwas investigated
by analyzing the polar diagrams of normalized Arias intensity (Ia) and the horizontal to vertical spectral
ratios (HVSR). Evidence of the anisotropic dynamic response and site specific resonance frequencies was obtained
for both topographic reliefs.
However, the ground shakingmaximaorientations differed depending on the local geological setting_ in one case
they were transversal and in the other case sub-parallel to the relief elongation.
No preferential direction of maximum shaking was observed at the site in the valley. Furthermore, evidence of
resonance was derived from the calculation of spectral ratio between the sites on the slope and those at the
foot of the hills. The resonancewasmore pronounced at higher elevations,which suggested a possible occurrence
of topographic amplification. Resonance frequencies were lower (3-5 Hz) on the smaller hill consisting of subvertically
layered phyllites and higher (up to 7 Hz) on the larger hill made mainly of limestones, whereas an opposite
relation between resonance frequency and hill size could be expected from a purely topographic effect.
This and the presence of amplification factors larger than 2 suggest that, in addition to topographic effects,
local geology also played a significant role in differentiating the site response.
Sito internet del Gruppo di Idrogeologia – http_
Dragone Vittoria, Polemio Maurizio, Limoni Pier Paolo, 2014, Sito internet del Gruppo di Idrogeologia – http_,
2014,
Role of Climate and Land Use Variations on the Occurrence of Damaging Hydrogeological Events in Apulia (Southern Italy)
Lonigro Teresa, Polemio Maurizio, 2014, Role of Climate and Land Use Variations on the Occurrence of Damaging Hydrogeological Events in Apulia (Southern Italy),
XII International IAEG Congress, Torino, 15-19/09/2014,
Trends in climate, short-duration rainfall, and damaging hydrogeological events (Apulia, Southern Italy)
Polemio, Maurizio; Lonigro, Teresa, 2014, Trends in climate, short-duration rainfall, and damaging hydrogeological events (Apulia, Southern Italy),
Natural hazards (Dordr.) 75 (2014): 515–540. doi_10.1007/s11069-014-1333-y,
DOI: 10.1007%2Fs11069-014-1333-y
Abstract
This study analyses monthly climatic data (rainfall, wet days, rainfall intensity, and temperature) and the ...
This study analyses monthly climatic data (rainfall, wet days, rainfall intensity, and temperature) and the annual maximum of short-duration rainfall (from 1 hour to 5 days) to characterise climate variations, focusing on rainfall, and their effects on trends in damaging hydrogeological events (DHEs), defined as the occurrence of one or more simultaneous landslides and/or floods causing extensive damage.
The methodology used is correlation, cross-correlation, trend analyses, and monthly indices. The monthly indices of rainfall, wet days, rainfall intensity, temperature, and flood and landslide occurrence were introduced to simplify the analysis of parameters characterised by spatial and temporal variability.
The approach was applied to a region of southern Italy (Apulia). The data were collected from two databases_ the damaging hydrogeological events database (1186 landslides and floods since 1918) and the climate database (from 1877; short-duration rainfall from 1921).
A statistically significant decreasing trend in rainfall intensity and an increasing trend in temperature, landslides, and DHEs were observed. A generalised decreasing trend in short-duration rainfall was also observed. The main exception involved a very small number of time series with annual maxima as long as 6 hours, for which an increasing trend prevailed. The results concerning the trends of selected climate and short-duration rainfall characteristics did not justify the increasing trend in DHEs. Hypotheses justifying this increasing DHE trend are proposed.
This article identifies the advantages of a simplified approach to reduce the intrinsic complexities of the spatial-temporal analysis of climate variability. This approach permits the simultaneous analysis of changes in flood and landslide occurrence.
Validazione del modello idrogeologico concettuale
Polemio M., Basso A., Casarano D., Dragone V., Limoni P.P., Romanazzi A., Santaloia F., Zuffianò L.E., 2014, Validazione del modello idrogeologico concettuale,
2014,
Abstract
Il Rapporto descrive il dettaglio operativo delle attività affidate alla UO 3 dell'Azione 2, integrata ...
Il Rapporto descrive il dettaglio operativo delle attività affidate alla UO 3 dell'Azione 2, integrata nel WP1 del sotto progetto 3, con particolare riferimento a quanto svolto nel corso dell'anno 2014.
Le attività sperimentali e modellistiche sono state finalizzate alla validazione del modello idrogeologico concettuale dell'acquifero le cui acque sotterranee trovano efflusso nel Mar Piccolo di Taranto.
Numerical Modeling of Interrelationships between Linear Transportation Infrastructures and Hydro-Geological Hazard in Floodplains
Trizzino Rosamaria, 2014, Numerical Modeling of Interrelationships between Linear Transportation Infrastructures and Hydro-Geological Hazard in Floodplains,
Engineering Geology for Society and Territory-Applied Geology for Major Engineering Projects, edited by Giorgio Lollino , Daniele Giordan, Kurosch Thuro, Carlos Carranza-Torres, Faquan Wu, Paul Marinos, Carlos Delgado, pp. 317–321. New York_ Springer Heidelberg Dordrecht London New York, 2014,
Abstract
The development and efficiency of transportation infrastructures has always been a central element in the ...
The development and efficiency of transportation infrastructures has always been a central element in the planning and management of territory, not only with regard to the social and economic aspects but also for the management of environmental emergencies, in particular those of Civil Protection. In the valleys most usual design solution is the road embankment. In the presence of a surface water table the realization of a road embankment causes more or less marked alterations of the piezometric levels, with serious problems to vehicular traffic. Typically in such situations to avoid the risk of flooding of the roadway engineers tend to increase the height of the embankment, thus increasing the overload in the foundation soil and thereby creating new risk situations. In this paper it is proposed a modeling study aimed at determining the interactions between the geometric and geomechanical properties of foundation--road body--roadway and deep and surface water table levels, in order to identify risk scenarios. The numerical analysis has been carried out by a finite element calculation code taking into account different combinations of water level depth and embankment height for different lithological and geotechnical properties of the foundation soils. The obtained results show that there are some critical combinations of the above parameters that can cause the rise of the water level well above the ground surface not only at the road embankment but also in the surrounding areas up to tens of meters from the road. © Springer International Publishing Switzerland 2015.
Temporal and Spatial Variability in Landslide Susceptibility Analyses
Rosamaria Trizzino, Rossella Pagliarulo, 2014, Temporal and Spatial Variability in Landslide Susceptibility Analyses,
Geophysical research abstracts (Online) 16 (2014).,
Abstract
The geomorphic processes in landscape evolution are commonly assumed deterministic, although their high variability in ...
The geomorphic processes in landscape evolution are commonly assumed deterministic, although their high variability in rates and time. As the stability analyses of slopes are concerned, the classical methods consider threshold values of the different elements (slope angle, friction angle, climatic conditions, hydrogeological conditions, seismicity) that condition the safety factors, but often widespread landscape instabilities occur when the threshold values are not exceeded. To analyze these phenomena we studied a model for defining an "average" pattern of landscape evolution starting from the single deterministic process. Many previous studies demonstrated the driving role of weathering and erosion processes in landslide evolution. Among these, the "instability principle of geomorphic equilibrium" (Scheidegger, 1983) stated the relevancy of exogenic processes (weathering, erosion, etc.) particularly in those places where preexisting micro topographic irregularities or lithological variations are recognizable.
The present paper gives an example of the unstable growth of small perturbations from the initial conditions up to the landslide initiation, even if there were no measurable variations in external controls. In this analysis the geomaterials are considered as a weathering system mathematically depicted as an n-components nonlinear dynamical system. A hierarchical multiscale model of instability is applied. The model treats four spatial scales_ 1) local regolith scale (weathering processes, in situ breakdown of geo-materials), 2) hill slope scale (allocation of weathered products_ soil removal in solid form, via erosion and mass wasting, or in dissolved form via surface water flow), 3) landscape units (relationships between weathering and denudation), 4) broadest landscape scale (topographic and isostatic response to weathering-limited denudation, unloading or depositional loading). The landslide susceptibility
analysis for the present study is located in the south of Italy, in the Apulian Tavoliere,in front of the Southern portion of Apennine Chain. We focus on the town of Troia (in the Foggia province) which is representative of a typical geomorphological situation of the Daunian Subapennine villages. The main outcropping rocks are made of silty clay sediments, well known as "Subapennine Clays", and superimposed clastic deposits of coarse-grained conglomerates. There, the landscape is characterized by low hills and intervening wide alluvial valleys. On the top of the flat ridges are located several old towns and the bordering slopes are affected by continuous geomorphological evolution governed by erosion and weathering. So, several landslides take place on the borders of the villages. To analyse the stability conditions of the area we considered a local scale weathering system mathematically
treated as a 5-components nonlinear system. Applying the dynamical instability principle and solving the
system throughout the first Routh-Hurwitz criterion, we obtained that in the case studied preexisting lithological deviations and changes in geomorphic boundary conditions lead to a divergent non-equilibrium response that resulted in instability of the whole territory under study.
Researches on stability of coastal areas
Pagliarulo R., 2014, Researches on stability of coastal areas,
IAEG XII Congress, Torino, 15-19 Settembre 2014,
Abstract
The presentation is a review of researches carried out in the last years about coastal ...
The presentation is a review of researches carried out in the last years about coastal stability relating to sea level changes.
Tipologie di approccio agli studi di geomorfologia costiera in relazione alle variazioni del livello del mare
Pagliarulo R., 2014, Tipologie di approccio agli studi di geomorfologia costiera in relazione alle variazioni del livello del mare,
Workshop "Soglie Pluviometriche", Bari, 4/3/2014,
Tidal notches in Mediterranean sea
Antonioli F.(1), Lo Presti V.(2-1), Anzidei M.(3), Deiana G.(4), Ferranti L.(5), Furlani S.(6), Mastronuzzi G.(7), Orrù P.(4), Pagliarulo R.(8), Rovere A.(9), Scicchitano G.(10-11), Sansò P.(12), Spampinato C.R.(10), Sannino G.(1), Vacchi M.(13),Caruso A.(14), De Sabata E.(15), 2014, Tidal notches in Mediterranean sea,
Rendiconti online Società Geologica Italiana 31 (2014). doi_10.3301/ROL.2014.140,
A large scale model approach finalise to management of resource_ the case of Salento (South Italy)
Polemio M.; Romanazzi A., 2014, A large scale model approach finalise to management of resource_ the case of Salento (South Italy),
41st IAH International Congress, Marrakech (Morocco), 15-19/09/2014,
Temporal evolution of a coastal aquifer in presence of seawater intrusion_ the case of Sibari plain (Southern Italy).
A. ROMANAZZI, R. DE ROSA, C. APOLLARO, CIANFLONE G., DOMINICI R., VESPASIANO G., MOLINARI P., POLEMIO M., 2014, Temporal evolution of a coastal aquifer in presence of seawater intrusion_ the case of Sibari plain (Southern Italy).,
41st IAH International Congress, Marrakech (Morocco), 15-19/09/2014,
A large scale model approach finalise to management of resource_ the case of Salento (South Italy)
Polemio M.; Romanazzi A., 2014, A large scale model approach finalise to management of resource_ the case of Salento (South Italy),
41st IAH International Congress, Marrakech (Morocco), 15-19/09/2014,
Abstract
The general purpose of this paper is to prove the capability of numerical models in ...
The general purpose of this paper is to prove the capability of numerical models in management of groundwater resources and in particular for achieve forecast scenarios to evaluate the impacts of climate change on them. A large-scale approach was chosen. The active domain of the study area (active cells) cover approximately 2,300 km2 with 45,925 cells. Vertically, the area was divided into 12 layers to allow a good lithological and hydrogeological discretization. Thickness and geometry of layers was defined on the 3D knowledge of hydrogeological complexes. Climatic, hydrological, geological, hydrological and agricultural acquisitions were processing and became the input for a variable-density flow and transport numerical modelling. MODFLOW and SEAWAT was used. Qualitative and quantitative groundwater trends from 1930 to 2060 was so defined. To achieve predictive scenarios for the management of coastal groundwater resources could be necessary take into account climate changes, with regard particularly to temperature, precipitation, sea level and seawater salinity. The purpose was assessing the effects of climate change on groundwater availability and quality. Results show an important piezometric decrease and an increment of seawater intrusion and in consequence a deterioration of groundwater resource. For these requires different scenarios of pumping were considered to study and manage the reaction of the aquifer with reference to seawater intrusion effects. In others words, the same pumping was redistributed in the different areas consider a quality criterion, simple to use especially in those areas where policy of groundwater resource scientifically based is absent.
Temporal evolution of a coastal aquifer in presence of seawater intrusion_ the case of Sibari plain (Southern Italy).
A. ROMANAZZI, R. DE ROSA, C. APOLLARO, CIANFLONE G., DOMINICI R., VESPASIANO G., MOLINARI P., POLEMIO M., 2014, Temporal evolution of a coastal aquifer in presence of seawater intrusion_ the case of Sibari plain (Southern Italy).,
41st IAH International Congress, Marrakech (Morocco), 15-19/09/2014,
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to present the modeling of a coastal porous aquifer ...
The aim of this paper is to present the modeling of a coastal porous aquifer located in the plain of Sibari (Southern Italy) to establish the effect of seawater intrusion since the well discharge was negligible (natural conditions), to current overexploitation. Qualitative and quantitative groundwater trends from 1930 to 2000 were so defined. This temporal evolution of groundwater resource will be used for forecasting purpose and for evaluate new management tools for a sustainable use of water resource. Study area is about 365 km2 for a coastline of about 35 km. The area can be conceptualized into three hydrogeological complexes (from the top): Sand and Clay, Clay and Silt, Sand and Conglomerate, this last constituting the deep confined aquifer, the bottom of which is not well-defined. Shallow aquifer is predominantly fed by direct rainwater infiltration. Deep aquifer is fed by outflows of the mountainous aquifers as the case of limestone aquifer of Pollino Mount and of shallow granitic aquifer of the Sila massif. The computer codes selected for numerical groundwater modelling were MODFLOW and SEAWAT. Model was calibrated with PEST code with a correlation coefficient equal to 0,90. The water balance of both aquifers was calculated. A relevant decrease of piezometric surface and increasing effects of seawater intrusion were observed in the shallow aquifer. Low modification of piezometric levels and salinity were observed in the deep aquifer. These preliminary results and next result scenarios will be used together with on-going survey data to assess trend of future groundwater availability and quality.
The Ivancich active landslide process (Assisi, Central Italy) analysed via numerical modeling jointly optimized by DInSAR and inclinometric data
Castaldo R, Tizzani P, Lollino P, Calò F, Ardizzone F, Manunta M, Guzzetti F, Lanari R, 2014, The Ivancich active landslide process (Assisi, Central Italy) analysed via numerical modeling jointly optimized by DInSAR and inclinometric data,
IAEG XII CONGRESS, Torino, 15-19 Settembre 2014,
Overview: management of groundwater at salinisation risk
Polemio, M. Zuffiano', 2014, Overview: management of groundwater at salinisation risk,
SWIM 2014, 23rd Salt Water Intrusion Meeting, pp. 466–466, Husum (Germany), 16-20/06/2014,
Abstract
Natural waters contain dissolved minerals from interactions with atmospheric and soil gases, mixing with other ...
Natural waters contain dissolved minerals from interactions with atmospheric and soil gases, mixing with other solutions, and/or interactions with the biosphere and lithosphere. In many cases, these processes result in natural waters containing solute or salinity above concentrations recommended for a specified use, which creates significant social and economic problems. Groundwater salinisation can be caused by natural phenomena and anthropogenic activities. For the first case, we can distinguish terrestrial and marine phenomena. Approximately 16% of the total area of continental earth is potentially involved in groundwater salinisation. Seawater intrusion can be considered to be the primary phenomenon for study in terms of groundwater salinisation. There are different measures, actions and practices for managing groundwater when the natural resource is exposed to salinisation. Some of these measures have a mitigation objective. Other measures have a more adaptive approach and accept the high groundwater salinity but adjusting the groundwater use so that it is not harmful. On the basis of worldwide experiences, three different approaches to the protection of groundwater via salinisation mitigation and/or groundwater salinity improvement can be recognised considering the classifications of the salinisation sources and focusing on the effect of seawater intrusion. The paper describes approaches. The complexity of these approaches generally increases due to difficulties caused by groundwater quality and quantity degradation and increased demand for quality water. Moving from the lowest to the highest complexity, these approaches are the engineering approach, the discharge management approach, and the water and land management approach. The engineering approach is realised on the local scale with the purpose of controlling the salinisation, optimising the well discharge with specific technical solutions and/or completing works to improve the quality and/or quantity of the discharged fresh groundwater. The discharge management approach includes a coastal aquifer and defines rules concerning groundwater utilisation and well discharge. The water and land management approach should be applied on the regional scale. This approach becomes necessary when one or more need creates an overall framework of high-quality water scarcity. These conditions, sometimes combined with an awareness of negative environmental effects, force people to accept new water saving practices and land use modifications. As the natural effects of salinisation can be enhanced by a multiplicity of human actions, the discharge management approach and the water and land management approach should generally be applied by water authorities or institutional and governmental organisations that are responsible for groundwater quality and availability.
Hydrogeological modeling for sustainable groundwater management under climate change effects for a karstic coastal aquifer (Southern Italy)
Polemio, M., 2014, Hydrogeological modeling for sustainable groundwater management under climate change effects for a karstic coastal aquifer (Southern Italy),
SWIM 2014, 23rd Salt Water Intrusion Meeting, Husum (Germany), 16-20/06/2014,
Abstract
Seawater intrusion is a pervasive problem affecting coastal aquifer, where the concentration of population and ...
Seawater intrusion is a pervasive problem affecting coastal aquifer, where the concentration of population and the increasing water demand creates risks of overexploitation, especially in those areas where is the only resource of drinking and irrigation water. This phenomenon is more considerable for the coastal karst aquifers, as observed in many Mediterranean countries and in some Italian regions as Friuli, Sardegna, Sicilia, Lazio, Campania and Puglia. This note aims to describe a research activity finalised to define a numerical model as management tools for groundwater resource of Salento (South Italy) to reduce the quantitative and qualitative degradation risks. The numerical codes used was MODFLOW (McDonald and Harbaught, 1988) and SEAWAT (Guo and Langevin, 2002). The active domain of the study area (active cells) covered approximately 2,300 km2 with 45,925 cells. Vertically, to allow a good lithological and hydrogeological discretization, the area was divided into 12 layers, from 214 to -350 m asl. Thickness and geometry of layers was defined on the basis of the aquifer conceptualisation based on the 3D knowledge of hydrogeological complexes. On the basis of detailed geological and hydrogeological conceptualisation, the climate change effects were considered in terms of natural recharge variations from 1930 to 1999 (Cotecchia et al., 2005; Polemio and Casarano, 2008). To take account of anthropogenic activity, mainly due to tourism and agriculture, the discharging trend was assessed, focusing on late decenniums (eighties and nineties), in which the discharge increase was mainly observed. Models representing the natural steady-state condition (using data of thirties) and transient scenarios of late decenniums were realised. The purpose of this first model implementation was, besides validated model, to assess the groundwater availability and quality in a recent period of seventy years (Polemio and Romanazzi, 2012; Romanazzi and Polemio, 2013). Results emphasize an essential decrease of piezometric levels and a worsening of seawater intrusion. On these bases, six forecasting transient scenarios were implemented, referred to future periods of about twenty years (2000-2020, 2021-2040 and 2041-2060) with the aim to predicting the evolution of piezometric level and seawater intrusion. For forecast data about precipitation and temperature, among the many models in the literature, we referred to the model developed by Giorgi and Lionello (2008), in relation to the defined scenario A1B. The model predicts temperature variations (
A peculiar case of coastal springs and geogenic saline groundwater_ the Santa Cesarea Terme thermal springs (Southern Italy)
Polemio, M.
Limoni, P.P.
Liotta, D.
Palladino, G.
Rizzo, E.
Santaloia, F.
Zuffianò, L.E., 2014, A peculiar case of coastal springs and geogenic saline groundwater_ the Santa Cesarea Terme thermal springs (Southern Italy),
SWIM 2014, 23rd Salt Water Intrusion Meeting, pp. 301–304, Husum (Germany), 16-20/06/2014,
Abstract
Carbonate aquifers, located in foreland tectonic settings, could represent important thermal water resources outside the ...
Carbonate aquifers, located in foreland tectonic settings, could represent important thermal water resources outside the volcanic areas, supplying spas or geothermal installations. Thermal springs constitute the discharge areas of deep marine and continental groundwaters flowing within these carbonate aquifers whose hydraulic conductivity and the relevant geothermal fluid migration are strictly controlled by both the discontinuity network and the karst processes involving the foreland environment. An example of these springs occurs along the south-easternmost portion of the Apulia region (Southern Italy) where some sulphurous and warm waters (22-33 °C) flow out in partially submerged caves located along the coast, thus supplying the spas of Santa Cesarea Terme.
These springs are known from ancient times (Aristotele in III century BC) and the physical-chemical features of their thermal waters resulted to be partly influenced by the sea level variations. Some hypotheses about the origin of these warm waters were proposed up to now by previous researches but some uncertainties still exist. For this reason, the area has been selected in order to define the conceptual model of the geothermal resources related to the thermal springs and, as a consequence, the origin of the thermal springs. It is one of the pilot site of the Vigor Project (Evaluation of the geothermal potential of Regions of Convergence), promoted by the Italian Ministry of Economic Development and National Research Council.
Santa Cesarea Terme zone is located within the Apulia carbonate platform, the foreland of the southern Apennines, which consists of Jurassic-Cretaceous limestones, thick more than 5 km in the study area and affected by intense karst processes, resting above the Late Triassic evaporite (Burano Fm) and, unconformably, overlaid by Cenozoic calcareous successions. Belonging to a coastal area, the studied groundwater, whose top is located almost to the sea level, is involved in saltwater intrusion and therefore the salt-fresh water interface occurs at some meters below the sea level moving inland.
Geological and hydrogeological surveys, including geo-electrical prospecting, and chemical and isotopic analyses of both groundwater and seawater have been carried out. Stable isotopes (?18O, ?D) were used to define the origin of the thermal waters and the recharge mechanism of the geothermal systems while the unstable isotope (3H) was determined for estimating the age of the thermal waters and to define the conceptual model of this low temperature geothermal resource.
All the data have been analysed to improve the knowledge of the groundwater flow system, thus assessing the possibility of using low-temperature geothermal fluids to fulfil the thermal needs of the town of Santa Cesarea Terme.
In this narrow area, the source of geogenic salinization of spring groundwater was referred to ascending very deep groundwater, more saline than current sea water.The geochemical composition and the physical features of the sampled waters suggest that thermal waters should be moving from ancient seawaters subjected to intense evaporation processes, infiltrated at great depth within the seabed substratum. Afterwards, these thermal fluids should flow up through the almost vertical structures, related to the transtensional structures, identified within a narrow sector of the studied territory.
Overview: management of groundwater at salinisation risk
Polemio, M.
Zuffianò, L.E., 2014, Overview: management of groundwater at salinisation risk,
SWIM 2014, 23rd Salt Water Intrusion Meeting, pp. 466–466, Husum (Germany), 16-20/06/2014,
Abstract
Natural waters contain dissolved minerals from interactions with atmospheric and soil gases, mixing with other ...
Natural waters contain dissolved minerals from interactions with atmospheric and soil gases, mixing with other solutions, and/or interactions with the biosphere and lithosphere. In many cases, these processes result in natural waters containing solute or salinity above concentrations recommended for a specified use, which creates significant social and economic problems.
Groundwater salinisation can be caused by natural phenomena and anthropogenic activities. For the first case, we can distinguish terrestrial and marine phenomena. Approximately 16% of the total area of continental earth is potentially involved in groundwater salinisation. Seawater intrusion can be considered to be the primary phenomenon for study in terms of groundwater salinisation.
There are different measures, actions and practices for managing groundwater when the natural resource is exposed to salinisation. Some of these measures have a mitigation objective. Other measures have a more adaptive approach and accept the high groundwater salinity but adjusting the groundwater use so that it is not harmful.
On the basis of worldwide experiences, three different approaches to the protection of groundwater via salinisation mitigation and/or groundwater salinity improvement can be recognised considering the classifications of the salinisation sources and focusing on the effect of seawater intrusion. The paper describes approaches.
The complexity of these approaches generally increases due to difficulties caused by groundwater quality and quantity degradation and increased demand for quality water. Moving from the lowest to the highest complexity, these approaches are the engineering approach, the discharge management approach, and the water and land management approach.
The engineering approach is realised on the local scale with the purpose of controlling the salinisation, optimising the well discharge with specific technical solutions and/or completing works to improve the quality and/or quantity of the discharged fresh groundwater.
The discharge management approach includes a coastal aquifer and defines rules concerning groundwater utilisation and well discharge.
The water and land management approach should be applied on the regional scale. This approach becomes necessary when one or more need creates an overall framework of high-quality water scarcity. These conditions, sometimes combined with an awareness of negative environmental effects, force people to accept new water saving practices and land use modifications. As the natural effects of salinisation can be enhanced by a multiplicity of human actions, the discharge management approach and the water and land management approach should generally be applied by water authorities or institutional and governmental organisations that are responsible for groundwater quality and availability.
Hydrogeological model of a complex coastal aquifers_ the case of Sibari Plain (Southern Italy)
De Rosa, R.
Romanazzi, A.
Apollaro, C.
Cianflone, G.
Dominici, R.
Vespasiano, G.
Molinari, P.
Polemio, M., 2014, Hydrogeological model of a complex coastal aquifers_ the case of Sibari Plain (Southern Italy),
SWIM 2014, 23rd Salt Water Intrusion Meeting, pp. 297–300, Husum (Germany), 16-20/06/2014,
Abstract
The increasing overexploitation of water resources is observed on a global scale in the previous ...
The increasing overexploitation of water resources is observed on a global scale in the previous decades; this trend involves the coastal regions of Mediterranean Basin (Van Beynen et alii, 2012). As an effect of increasing groundwater discharge from coastal aquifers, the phenomenon of seawater intrusion is becoming a serious problem for most of the coastal aquifers, especially in the Mediterranean area (COST, 2003; COST, 2005). The aim of this paper is to present the modeling of a coastal porous aquifer located in the complex plain of Sibari (Southern Italy), a plain deeply modified as an effect of reclamation works realized after thirties. The model was implemented using piezometric historical data (from thirties) to establish the effect of seawater intrusion when the well discharge was negligible (natural conditions), the modification in subsequent decades, to be used for forecasting purpose and for evaluate the evolution of groundwater resource.
The area actually represents a landscape with anthropic equilibrium based on the works of a land reclamation project (1960s-1990s). Study area is about 365 km2 for a coastline of about 35 km, about which an hydrogeological conceptual model was defined. The area can be conceptualized into three hydrogeological complexes (from the top): sand complex, a clay complex and a sand and conglomerate complex, constituting the deep aquifer, the bottom of which is not well-defined. Shallow aquifer is predominantly fed by direct rainwater infiltration. Deep aquifer is fed by outflows of the mountainous aquifers as the case of limestone aquifer of Pollino Mount,and of shallow granitic aquifer of the Sila massif (Guerricchio and Melidoro, 1975). The maximum piezometric levels of the deep aquifer are equivalent to approximately 40 m asl, so in some areas it presents artesian feature.
The computer codes selected for numerical groundwater modelling were MODFLOW (McDonald and Harbaugh, 1998) and SEAWAT (Guo and Langevin, 2002). This groundwater flow modelling is based on the concept of a equivalent homogeneous porous medium by which it is assumed that the real heterogeneous aquifer can be simulated as homogeneous porous media within cells or elements (Anderson, 2002).
The modeled aquifer area was uniformly discretized, using Peclet number, into a finite difference grid of 97,735 cells of 240 m x 350 m. For the vertical discretization, model was divided into five layers of variable thicknesses, defined on the basis of a multi-methodological geological survey. Climatic, hydrological and agricultural data were processed to defines inputs for the numerical model based on the variable-density flow. An hydrological balance using monthly and annual of 13 thermo-pluviometric stations falling in the study area, in the time period 1930-1975, was done (Polemio and Casarano, 2008, Polemio et alii, 2013). The numerical model was calibrated with PEST code with a correlation coefficient equal to 0,90. Preliminary results of steady flow and of groundwater salinity spatial are now available and shows it is not sustainable in the case of shallow aquifer and it can be improved in the case of deep aquifer.
Hydrogeological modeling for sustainable groundwater management under climate change effects for a karstic coastal aquifer (Southern Italy)
Polemio, M.
Romanazzi, A., 2014, Hydrogeological modeling for sustainable groundwater management under climate change effects for a karstic coastal aquifer (Southern Italy),
SWIM 2014, 23rd Salt Water Intrusion Meeting, pp. 305–308, Husum (Germany), 16-20/06/2014,
Abstract
Seawater intrusion is a pervasive problem affecting coastal aquifer, where the concentration of population and ...
Seawater intrusion is a pervasive problem affecting coastal aquifer, where the concentration of population and the increasing water demand creates risks of overexploitation, especially in those areas where is the only resource of drinking and irrigation water. This phenomenon is more considerable for the coastal karst aquifers, as observed in many Mediterranean countries and in some Italian regions as Friuli, Sardegna, Sicilia, Lazio, Campania and Puglia. This note aims to describe a research activity finalised to define a numerical model as management tools for groundwater resource of Salento (South Italy) to reduce the quantitative and qualitative degradation risks.
The numerical codes used was MODFLOW (McDonald and Harbaught, 1988) and SEAWAT (Guo and Langevin, 2002). The active domain of the study area (active cells) covered approximately 2,300 km2 with 45,925 cells. Vertically, to allow a good lithological and hydrogeological discretization, the area was divided into 12 layers, from 214 to -350 m asl. Thickness and geometry of layers was defined on the basis of the aquifer conceptualisation based on the 3D knowledge of hydrogeological complexes.
On the basis of detailed geological and hydrogeological conceptualisation, the climate change effects were considered in terms of natural recharge variations from 1930 to 1999 (Cotecchia et al., 2005; Polemio and Casarano, 2008). To take account of anthropogenic activity, mainly due to tourism and agriculture, the discharging trend was assessed, focusing on late decenniums (eighties and nineties), in which the discharge increase was mainly observed. Models representing the natural steady-state condition (using data of thirties) and transient scenarios of late decenniums were realised.
The purpose of this first model implementation was, besides validated model, to assess the groundwater availability and quality in a recent period of seventy years (Polemio and Romanazzi, 2012; Romanazzi and Polemio, 2013).
Results emphasize an essential decrease of piezometric levels and a worsening of seawater intrusion. On these bases, six forecasting transient scenarios were implemented, referred to future periods of about twenty years (2000-2020, 2021-2040 and 2041-2060) with the aim to predicting the evolution of piezometric level and seawater intrusion. For forecast data about precipitation and temperature, among the many models in the literature, we referred to the model developed by Giorgi and Lionello (2008), in relation to the defined scenario A1B. The model predicts temperature variations (°C) and precipitation percentage variation for the period 2001-2100. It was considered an average temperature variation form 0.9 °C (2001-2020) to 2.4 °C (2040-2060). Precipitation shows a negative percentage change (referred to 1960-80) equal to -3.9, -5.9 and -9,0% respectively for 2000-2020, 2021-2040 and 2041-2060. These climatic data are in agreement with other climate change models (Garcia- Ruiz et al., 2011).
For the three future scenarios new recharge and discharge were assessed. In terms of discharge, they are mainly due to irrigation. For this kind of future utilisation two hypotheses were considered. The first assumes that type and extension of cultivations will be steady and, as an effect of climate change, the pressure on groundwater resource will further rise as necessary to satisfy irrigation demand (Dragoni and Sukhjia, 2008; Goderniaux et al., 2008). In the second hypothesis the irrigation discharge will be steady and equal to those of the 1999 due the adaption of cultivation types and irrigation practices. In both cases the scenario results show a general decrease of the piezometric head and a deterioration of water quality caused by seawater intrusion (Romanazzi et al., 2013). The results call for new land and groundwater resources management criteria.
Considering the Water Framework Directive (EC, 2000) and international and regional experiences (LaMoreaux, 2010; Jiménez-Madrid, 2010; Polemio et al., 2009, Polemio et al., 2010), the study area was subdivided in three zones. To define the zone boundary, the threshold criterion was used (Polemio and Limoni, 2001; Polemio et al., 2009). The threshold between pure fresh groundwater and any type of mixing between fresh and saline groundwater was defined equal to of 0.5 g/l. In the first zone, the coastal zone, salinity was always (in the past) above the threshold, a transition zone, where salinity was variable respect to the threshold, and a third zone or inland zone where salinity value was permanently below the threshold.
These three zones were implemented in the model. Different combinations of discharge criterions applied to these zones suggest the best choices to be applied for management criteria able to safely considered the future effects of climate changes.
Statistical analysis of rainfall, river head and piezometric level data of central-Adriatic alluvial aquifers.
CHIAUDANI ALESSANDRO, POLEMIO MAURIZIO, PALMUCCI WILLIAM, RUSI SERGIO, 2014, Statistical analysis of rainfall, river head and piezometric level data of central-Adriatic alluvial aquifers.,
Flowpath 2014, National Meeting on Hydrogeology, IAH Italian Chapter, pp. 132–133, Viterbo, 18-20/06/2014,
Abstract
The statistical and hydrogeological analysis of the relationships between rainfall, river and piezometric level historical ...
The statistical and hydrogeological analysis of the relationships between rainfall, river and piezometric level historical data can be useful to characterize the aquifers and to manage the groundwater resources. For this purpose measurements acquired every three days, relative to 1986-2009 period, concerning the Pescara river alluvial plain (Fig.1), were analyzed with several statistical methods. The alluvial bodies of the Pescara river is mainly silty-sandy. The plain aquifer is supported by Plio-Pleistocenic clayey deposits. The three wells (Fig. 2) are located in the medium-low alluvial plain. Autocorrelation and spectral univariate analysis, cross-correlation and bivariate spectral analysis have been implemented with the purpose to evaluate the memory effect, the delay of the piezometric level response to rainfall and river head/discharge impulse, and the periodical components of the time series (Mangin, 1984; Larocque et al., 1998; Polemio and Dragone, 1999).
Statistical analysis of rainfall, river head and piezometric level data of central-Adriatic alluvial aquifers.
CHIAUDANI ALESSANDRO, POLEMIO MAURIZIO, PALMUCCI WILLIAM, RUSI SERGIO, 2014, Statistical analysis of rainfall, river head and piezometric level data of central-Adriatic alluvial aquifers.,
Flowpath 2014, National Meeting on Hydrogeology, IAH Italian Chapter, pp. 132–133, Viterbo, 18-20/06/2014,
Abstract
The statistical and hydrogeological analysis of the relationships between rainfall, river and piezometric level historical ...
The statistical and hydrogeological analysis of the relationships between rainfall, river and piezometric level historical data can be useful to characterize the aquifers and to manage the groundwater resources. For this purpose measurements acquired every three days, relative to 1986-2009 period, concerning the Pescara river alluvial plain (Fig.1), were analyzed with several statistical methods. The alluvial bodies of the Pescara river is mainly silty-sandy. The plain aquifer is supported by Plio-Pleistocenic clayey deposits. The three wells (Fig. 2) are located in the medium-low alluvial plain. Autocorrelation and spectral univariate analysis, cross-correlation and bivariate spectral analysis have been implemented with the purpose to evaluate the memory effect, the delay of the piezometric level response to rainfall and river head/discharge impulse, and the periodical components of the time series (Mangin, 1984; Larocque et al., 1998; Polemio and Dragone, 1999).
Climate change and Mediterranean coastal karst aquifers_ the case of Salento (southern Italy)
POLEMIO MAURIZIO, ROMANAZZI ANDREA, 2014, Climate change and Mediterranean coastal karst aquifers_ the case of Salento (southern Italy),
Flowpath 2014, National Meeting on Hydrogeology, IAH Italian Chapter, pp. 158–159, Viterbo, 18-20/06/2014,
Abstract
Second half of the 20th century was characterized by an increase of groundwater discharge. Numerous ...
Second half of the 20th century was characterized by an increase of groundwater discharge. Numerous aquifers are overexploited in the world and in particular in the Mediterranean area. Problems tie to overexploitation, as piezometric decline and increase of seawater intrusion, are amplified in karst coastal aquifers where the whole effect could be a groundwater quality and quantity degradation. Focusing on Mediterranean countries, most part of coastal aquifers of Spain, France, Portugal, Slovenia, Croatia, Greece, Albania, Turkey, and Italy are karstic and affected, to different degrees, by seawater intrusion due high pumping extraction rates and low recharge. (COST, 2005; Polemio et al., 2010). Climate change may particularly aggravate these requirements, especially in the Mediterranean areas, due to the combined effects of semiarid condition climate, or reduced recharge and consequent increase of discharge (Cotecchia et al., 2003; Polemio 2005; Polemio et al., 2009). The general purpose of this paper is to prove the capability of large-scale numerical models in management of groundwater, in particular for achieve forecast scenarios to evaluate the impacts of climate change on groundwater resources of karst coastal aquifer of Salento (Southern Italy). The computer codes selected for numerical groundwater modelling were MODFLOW and SEAWAT. Three forecast transient scenarios, referred to 2001-2020, 2021-2040 and 2041-2060, were implemented, on the basis of calibrated and validated model, with the aim to predicting the evolution of piezometric level and seawater intrusion. The scenarios were discussed considering the effects of climate change, sea level rise and change of sea salinity.
Climate change and Mediterranean coastal karst aquifers_ the case of Salento (southern Italy)
POLEMIO MAURIZIO, ROMANAZZI ANDREA, 2014, Climate change and Mediterranean coastal karst aquifers_ the case of Salento (southern Italy),
Flowpath 2014, National Meeting on Hydrogeology, IAH Italian Chapter, pp. 158–159, Viterbo, 18-20/06/2014,
Abstract
Second half of the 20th century was characterized by an increase of groundwater discharge. Numerous ...
Second half of the 20th century was characterized by an increase of groundwater discharge. Numerous aquifers are overexploited in the world and in particular in the Mediterranean area. Problems tie to overexploitation, as piezometric decline and increase of seawater intrusion, are amplified in karst coastal aquifers where the whole effect could be a groundwater quality and quantity degradation. Focusing on Mediterranean countries, most part of coastal aquifers of Spain, France, Portugal, Slovenia, Croatia, Greece, Albania, Turkey, and Italy are karstic and affected, to different degrees, by seawater intrusion due high pumping extraction rates and low recharge. (COST, 2005; Polemio et al., 2010). Climate change may particularly aggravate these requirements, especially in the Mediterranean areas, due to the combined effects of semiarid condition climate, or reduced recharge and consequent increase of discharge (Cotecchia et al., 2003; Polemio 2005; Polemio et al., 2009). The general purpose of this paper is to prove the capability of large-scale numerical models in management of groundwater, in particular for achieve forecast scenarios to evaluate the impacts of climate change on groundwater resources of karst coastal aquifer of Salento (Southern Italy). The computer codes selected for numerical groundwater modelling were MODFLOW and SEAWAT. Three forecast transient scenarios, referred to 2001-2020, 2021-2040 and 2041-2060, were implemented, on the basis of calibrated and validated model, with the aim to predicting the evolution of piezometric level and seawater intrusion. The scenarios were discussed considering the effects of climate change, sea level rise and change of sea salinity.
Management of karstic coastal groundwater in a changing environment (Salento, southern Italy)
Maurizio Polemio, Andrea Romanazzi, 2014, Management of karstic coastal groundwater in a changing environment (Salento, southern Italy),
EGU General Assembly 2014, pp. 10964–10964, Vienna, Austria, 27/04-02/05/2014,
Abstract
We have been witness, during the second half of the 20th century, of an increase ...
We have been witness, during the second half of the 20th century, of an increase of groundwater discharge.
Today a great number of aquifers are overexploited in the world. Problems ties to overexploitation, as piezometric
decline and increase of seawater intrusion, are so more amplify in the coastal aquifers, and in particular, in karst
coastal aquifers. Seawater intrusion, in fact, is a pervasive problem affecting coastal aquifer, where the concentration
of population and the increasing water demand creates risks of overexploitation, especially in those areas
where is the only resource of drinking and irrigation water. The whole effect could be a groundwater quality and
quantity degradation. This is very often the case of coastal karst aquifers of Mediterranean countries. The general
purpose of this paper is to prove the capability of large-scale numerical models in management of groundwater, in
particular for achieve forecast scenarios to evaluate the impacts of climate change on groundwater resources. Study
area is the karst coastal aquifer of Salento (Southern Italy), largely utilized to satisfy the agricultural demand and
drinking demand with huge effects in terms of reduced availability and increasing salinity. The computer codes
selected for numerical groundwater modelling were MODFLOW and SEAWAT. Groundwater flow modelling is
based on the concept of a equivalent homogeneous porous medium. Three forecast transient scenarios, referred to
2001-2020, 2021-2040 and 2041-2060, were implemented, on the basis of calibrated and validated model, with
the aim to predicting the evolution of piezometric level and seawater intrusion. The scenarios were discussed
considering the effects of climate change, sea level rise and change of sea salinity. Some irrigation discharge
scenarios were considered in the discussion . Results shows qualitative and quantitative groundwater trends from
1930 to 2060 and emphasizes an essential decrease of piezometric level and a huge worsening of the groundwater
salinisation due seawater intrusion.
More details on previous results of this research activity were recently published (Polemio and Romanazzi, 2012;
Romanazzi and Polemio, 2013).
Natural and anthropogenic phenomena affecting the historical landslide trend in the Subappennino Dauno (southern Italy)
Teresa Lonigro, Francesca Santaloia, Maurizio Polemio, 2014, Natural and anthropogenic phenomena affecting the historical landslide trend in the Subappennino Dauno (southern Italy),
EGU General Assembly 2014, pp. 12320–12320, Vienna, Austria, 27/04-02/05/2014,
Abstract
The aim of this work is to present a methodology, based both on the use ...
The aim of this work is to present a methodology, based both on the use methods of time series analyses and
of geospatial analyses of monthly climatic data (rainfall, wet days, rainfall intensity, and temperature), annual
maximum of short-duration rainfall (from 1 hour to 5 days), historical modification of land use, and population
variations in order to characterise the effects of these variables on the occurrence of landsliding in Daunia
area, located on the eastern margin of the Southern Apennines thrust belt (southern Italy). Rock strata (mainly)
interbedded with clayey marls, clays and silty-clays outcrop in this area. Due to the intense strain history, these
successions are found to be from stratified to deeply fractured, up to be disrupted and floating as blocks in a
clayey matrix. In turn, the clay units are laminated to intensely fissured and characterised by very poor mechanical
properties (Santaloia et al., 2012).
The statistical analyses deal with data coming from published databases, integrated by public and private
documents, referring to a wide time span. Climate data records from 1877 to 2008 were elaborated, in particular
the data coming from sixteen rainfall gauges, ten of which were also thermometric. Moreover, some monthly
indices of rainfall, wet days, rainfall intensity, temperature, and landslide occurrence were introduced to simplify
the analysis of parameters, characterised by spatial and temporal variability. The population records are from the
19th century up to now while the time period of reference for the land use data is from 1930 up to now.
As concerns the landslide events, they were collected from 1918 to 2006. The main source of these records is the
AVI database, an existing Italian database that collects data about damaging floods and landslides from 1918 to
1996. This dataset was integrated up to 2006 by consulting newspapers, scientific publications, technical reports,
written by the researchers of the CNR-IRPI for the Civil Protection, and also documents belonging to a research
project (PS_119; Cotecchia et al. 2010). According to the landslide data collected, the landslide events resulted to
be 175 in the study area.
The trend analyses show that the landslide occurrence was increased with the time, despite of the rainfall and
temperature data are not prone to landsliding. As a matter of fact, the trend of both the monthly rainfall and
the rainfall intensity decreases, and the temperature and the wet days show a positive trend during the period of
reference. The trend of the short-duration rainfall results generally to decrease.
Not existing an evident relationship between climate variability and the increase of landslide occurrence, some
other factors should be considered, as, for instance, the poor mechanical soil properties, the role of anthropogenic
modifications and the mismanagement of risk-prone areas. In this regards, the preliminary results obtained
from the data analyses of the land use and the populations could partly justify the increasing trend of landslide
occurrence.
More details on previous results of this research activity were recently published (Cotecchia et al., 2010; Polemio
and Lonigro, 2011 and 2013; Santaloia et al., 2012).
Historical hydrology and database on flood events (Apulia, southern Italy)
Teresa Lonigro (1), Alessia Basso (1), Francesco Gentile (2), and Maurizio Polemio (1), 2014, Historical hydrology and database on flood events (Apulia, southern Italy),
EGU General Assembly 2014, Vienna, Austria, 30/04-02/05/2014,
Abstract
Historical data about floods represent an important tool for the comprehension of the hydrological processes,
the ...
Historical data about floods represent an important tool for the comprehension of the hydrological processes,
the estimation of hazard scenarios as a basis for Civil Protection purposes, as a basis of the rational land use
management, especially in karstic areas, where time series of river flows are not available and the river drainage is
rare.
The research shows the importance of the improvement of existing flood database with an historical approach,
finalized to collect past or historical floods event, in order to better assess the occurrence trend of floods, in the
case for the Apulian region (south Italy).
The main source of records of flood events for Apulia was the AVI (the acronym means Italian damaged areas)
database, an existing Italian database that collects data concerning damaging floods from 1918 to 1996.
The database was expanded consulting newspapers, publications, and technical reports from 1996 to 2006.
In order to expand the temporal range further data were collected searching in the archives of regional libraries.
About 700 useful news from 17 different local newspapers were found from 1876 to 1951. From a critical analysis
of the 700 news collected since 1876 to 1952 only 437 were useful for the implementation of the Apulia database.
The screening of these news showed the occurrence of about 122 flood events in the entire region.
The district of Bari, the regional main town, represents the area in which the great number of events occurred; the
historical analysis confirms this area as flood-prone.
There is an overlapping period (from 1918 to 1952) between old AVI database and new historical dataset obtained
by newspapers. With regard to this period, the historical research has highlighted new flood events not reported in
the existing AVI database and it also allowed to add more details to the events already recorded.
This study shows that the database is a dynamic instrument, which allows a continuous implementation of data,
even in real time.
More details on previous results of this research activity were recently published (Polemio, 2010; Basso et al.,
2012; Lonigro et al., 2013)
Influence of climate variability and urban areas on the flood events in Bari (Apulia, southern Italy)
Teresa Lonigro, Maurizio Polemio, 2014, Influence of climate variability and urban areas on the flood events in Bari (Apulia, southern Italy),
Geophysical research abstracts (Online) 16 (2014): 10685–10685.,
Abstract
The Damaging Hydrogeological Events (DHEs) can be defined as the occurrence of one or more ...
The Damaging Hydrogeological Events (DHEs) can be defined as the occurrence of one or more simultaneous
phenomena, such as droughts, windstorms, heat waves, landslides, floods and secondary floods (i.e. rapid
accumulation or pounding of surface water with very low flow velocity), causing damages. They represent a
serious problem, especially in DHE-prone areas with growing urbanization, where the infiltration capability is
limited by buildings and where the vulnerability is higher than other areas.
The paper proposes a methodology, based on both historical and time series approaches, used for describing the
influence of climatic variability and urban development on the number of phenomena observed.
The historical approach is finalised to collect phenomenon historical data, very important for the comprehension
of the evolution of a study area. Phenomenon historical data is useful for expanding the historical period of
investigation in order to assess the occurrence trend of DHEs. The historical analysis of DHEs can support
decision making and land-use planning, ultimately reducing natural risks.
The time series approach includes the collection and the statistical analysis of climatic data (monthly rainfall, wet
days, rainfall intensity, and temperature), useful to characterise the climate variations and trends and to roughly
assess the effects of these trends on river discharge and on the triggering of landslides. The time series approach is
completed by tools to analyse simultaneously all data types.
The study of land use variations, with a special emphasis on the urban areas, is important to understand how the
modifications occurred in the territory, especially in terms of vulnerability, could influence the occurrence of
DHEs. The methodology can be applied simultaneously to floods and landslides and was tested considering the
municipality of Bari (southern Italy), particularly affected by flood events.
Since the climate trend (decreasing trend of rainfall and rainfall intensity and an increasing trend of wet days and
temperatures) does not show favourable conditions for the increase of the annual number of damaging floods, its
trend is increasing. The role of anthropogenic modifications and the mismanagement of risk-prone areas should
be considered to justify the increasing occurrences of floods.
A validation of this hypothesis comes from the study of land use modifications, carried out comparing different
temporal levels of land use (from 1959 to 2006). The analysis shows, starting from 1959 to 2006, a significant
increase in urban areas (of about 50%) on the entire regional territory.
The municipality of Bari, the regional main town, has undergone a remarkable development of its urban areas,
from 12.45 Km2 in 1959 to 58.82 Km2 in 2006. The consequent increased vulnerability of this area has been
highlighted during the recent flood event occurred in 2005, which caused six casualties, numerous injuries and
damages to roads, buildings, industries, agriculture, livestock and services.
More details on previous results of this research activity were recently published (Polemio, 2010; Polemio and
Lonigro, 2012).
Management of karstic coastal groundwater in a changing environment (Salento, southern Italy)
Maurizio Polemio, Andrea Romanazzi, 2014, Management of karstic coastal groundwater in a changing environment (Salento, southern Italy),
Geophysical research abstracts (Online) 16 (2014): 10964–10964.,
Abstract
We have been witness, during the second half of the 20th century, of an increase ...
We have been witness, during the second half of the 20th century, of an increase of groundwater discharge.
Today a great number of aquifers are overexploited in the world. Problems ties to overexploitation, as piezometric
decline and increase of seawater intrusion, are so more amplify in the coastal aquifers, and in particular, in karst
coastal aquifers. Seawater intrusion, in fact, is a pervasive problem affecting coastal aquifer, where the concentration
of population and the increasing water demand creates risks of overexploitation, especially in those areas
where is the only resource of drinking and irrigation water. The whole effect could be a groundwater quality and
quantity degradation. This is very often the case of coastal karst aquifers of Mediterranean countries. The general
purpose of this paper is to prove the capability of large-scale numerical models in management of groundwater, in
particular for achieve forecast scenarios to evaluate the impacts of climate change on groundwater resources. Study
area is the karst coastal aquifer of Salento (Southern Italy), largely utilized to satisfy the agricultural demand and
drinking demand with huge effects in terms of reduced availability and increasing salinity. The computer codes
selected for numerical groundwater modelling were MODFLOW and SEAWAT. Groundwater flow modelling is
based on the concept of a equivalent homogeneous porous medium. Three forecast transient scenarios, referred to
2001-2020, 2021-2040 and 2041-2060, were implemented, on the basis of calibrated and validated model, with
the aim to predicting the evolution of piezometric level and seawater intrusion. The scenarios were discussed
considering the effects of climate change, sea level rise and change of sea salinity. Some irrigation discharge
scenarios were considered in the discussion . Results shows qualitative and quantitative groundwater trends from
1930 to 2060 and emphasizes an essential decrease of piezometric level and a huge worsening of the groundwater
salinisation due seawater intrusion.
More details on previous results of this research activity were recently published (Polemio and Romanazzi, 2012;
Romanazzi and Polemio, 2013).
Historical hydrology and database on flood events (Apulia, southern Italy)
Teresa Lonigro (1), Alessia Basso (1), Francesco Gentile (2), and Maurizio Polemio (1), 2014, Historical hydrology and database on flood events (Apulia, southern Italy),
Geophysical research abstracts (Online) 16 (2014): 10869–10869.,
Abstract
Historical data about floods represent an important tool for the comprehension of the hydrological processes,
the ...
Historical data about floods represent an important tool for the comprehension of the hydrological processes,
the estimation of hazard scenarios as a basis for Civil Protection purposes, as a basis of the rational land use
management, especially in karstic areas, where time series of river flows are not available and the river drainage is
rare.
The research shows the importance of the improvement of existing flood database with an historical approach,
finalized to collect past or historical floods event, in order to better assess the occurrence trend of floods, in the
case for the Apulian region (south Italy).
The main source of records of flood events for Apulia was the AVI (the acronym means Italian damaged areas)
database, an existing Italian database that collects data concerning damaging floods from 1918 to 1996.
The database was expanded consulting newspapers, publications, and technical reports from 1996 to 2006.
In order to expand the temporal range further data were collected searching in the archives of regional libraries.
About 700 useful news from 17 different local newspapers were found from 1876 to 1951. From a critical analysis
of the 700 news collected since 1876 to 1952 only 437 were useful for the implementation of the Apulia database.
The screening of these news showed the occurrence of about 122 flood events in the entire region.
The district of Bari, the regional main town, represents the area in which the great number of events occurred; the
historical analysis confirms this area as flood-prone.
There is an overlapping period (from 1918 to 1952) between old AVI database and new historical dataset obtained
by newspapers. With regard to this period, the historical research has highlighted new flood events not reported in
the existing AVI database and it also allowed to add more details to the events already recorded.
This study shows that the database is a dynamic instrument, which allows a continuous implementation of data,
even in real time.
More details on previous results of this research activity were recently published (Polemio, 2010; Basso et al.,
2012; Lonigro et al., 2013)
Influence of climate variability and urban areas on the flood events in Bari (Apulia, southern Italy)
Teresa Lonigro, Maurizio Polemio, 2014, Influence of climate variability and urban areas on the flood events in Bari (Apulia, southern Italy),
EGU General Assembly 2014, pp. 10685–10685, Vienna, Austria, 30/04-02/05/2014,
Abstract
The Damaging Hydrogeological Events (DHEs) can be defined as the occurrence of one or more ...
The Damaging Hydrogeological Events (DHEs) can be defined as the occurrence of one or more simultaneous
phenomena, such as droughts, windstorms, heat waves, landslides, floods and secondary floods (i.e. rapid
accumulation or pounding of surface water with very low flow velocity), causing damages. They represent a
serious problem, especially in DHE-prone areas with growing urbanization, where the infiltration capability is
limited by buildings and where the vulnerability is higher than other areas.
The paper proposes a methodology, based on both historical and time series approaches, used for describing the
influence of climatic variability and urban development on the number of phenomena observed.
The historical approach is finalised to collect phenomenon historical data, very important for the comprehension
of the evolution of a study area. Phenomenon historical data is useful for expanding the historical period of
investigation in order to assess the occurrence trend of DHEs. The historical analysis of DHEs can support
decision making and land-use planning, ultimately reducing natural risks.
The time series approach includes the collection and the statistical analysis of climatic data (monthly rainfall, wet
days, rainfall intensity, and temperature), useful to characterise the climate variations and trends and to roughly
assess the effects of these trends on river discharge and on the triggering of landslides. The time series approach is
completed by tools to analyse simultaneously all data types.
The study of land use variations, with a special emphasis on the urban areas, is important to understand how the
modifications occurred in the territory, especially in terms of vulnerability, could influence the occurrence of
DHEs. The methodology can be applied simultaneously to floods and landslides and was tested considering the
municipality of Bari (southern Italy), particularly affected by flood events.
Since the climate trend (decreasing trend of rainfall and rainfall intensity and an increasing trend of wet days and
temperatures) does not show favourable conditions for the increase of the annual number of damaging floods, its
trend is increasing. The role of anthropogenic modifications and the mismanagement of risk-prone areas should
be considered to justify the increasing occurrences of floods.
A validation of this hypothesis comes from the study of land use modifications, carried out comparing different
temporal levels of land use (from 1959 to 2006). The analysis shows, starting from 1959 to 2006, a significant
increase in urban areas (of about 50%) on the entire regional territory.
The municipality of Bari, the regional main town, has undergone a remarkable development of its urban areas,
from 12.45 Km2 in 1959 to 58.82 Km2 in 2006. The consequent increased vulnerability of this area has been
highlighted during the recent flood event occurred in 2005, which caused six casualties, numerous injuries and
damages to roads, buildings, industries, agriculture, livestock and services.
More details on previous results of this research activity were recently published (Polemio, 2010; Polemio and
Lonigro, 2012).
Investigating landslides and unstable slopes with satellite Multi Temporal Interferometry_ Current issues and future perspectives
Janusz Wasowski,
Fabio Bovenga, 2014, Investigating landslides and unstable slopes with satellite Multi Temporal Interferometry_ Current issues and future perspectives,
Engineering geology 174 (2014): 103–138. doi_10.1016/j.enggeo.2014.03.003,
DOI: 10.1016%2Fj.enggeo.2014.03.003
Abstract
Multi Temporal Interferometry (MTI) stands for advanced synthetic aperture radar differential interferometry (DInSAR) techniques, which ...
Multi Temporal Interferometry (MTI) stands for advanced synthetic aperture radar differential interferometry (DInSAR) techniques, which include Permanent/Persistent Scatterers Interferometry -- PSInSAR(TM)/PSI and similar methods, as well as Small Baseline Subset -- SBAS and related/hybrid approaches. These techniques are capable to provide wide-area coverage (thousands of km2) and precise (mm-cm resolution), spatially dense information (from hundreds to thousands of measurement points/km2) on ground surface deformations. New MTI application opportunities are emerging thanks to i) greater data availability from radar satellites, and ii) improved capabilities of the new space radar sensors (X-band Cosmo-SkyMed, C-band RADARSAT-2, TerraSAR-X) in terms of resolution (from 3 to 1 m) and revisit time (from 11 to 4 days for X-band acquisitions). This implies greater quantity and quality information about ground surface displacements and hence improved landslide detection and monitoring capabilities. Even though the applicability of MTI to regional and local-scale investigations of slow landslides has already been demonstrated, the awareness of the MTI utility and its technical limitations among landslide scientists and practitioners is still rather low. By referring to recent works on radar remote sensing, many regional and local scale MTI application examples from the geoscience literature and our own studies, we present an up-to-date overview of current opportunities and challenges in this field. We discuss relevant technical constraints and data interpretation issues that hamper the use of MTI in landslide assessment. Then guidelines on how to mitigate MTI technical limitations and avoid erroneous interpretations of radar-derived slope surface deformations are presented for the benefit of users lacking advanced knowledge in SAR applications. Finally, in view of the upcoming radar satellite launches, future perspectives on MTI applications are outlined and recommendations for applied research priorities are suggested. We foresee that with regular globe-scale coverage, improved temporal resolution (weekly or better) and freely available imagery, new radar satellite background missions such as the European Space Agency's Sentinel-1 will guarantee ever increasing and more efficient use of MTI in landslide investigations. Furthermore, thanks to the improved temporal and spatial resolutions of the new generation radar sensors, significant breakthroughs are expected in detailed slope instability process modeling (e.g. kinematic and geotechnical models), as well as in the understanding of spatial and temporal patterns of landslide movement/activity and their relationships to causative or triggering factors (e.g. precipitation, seismic loading).
Natural and anthropogenic phenomena affecting the historical landslide trend in the Subappennino Dauno (southern Italy)
Teresa Lonigro, Francesca Santaloia, Maurizio Polemio, 2014, Natural and anthropogenic phenomena affecting the historical landslide trend in the Subappennino Dauno (southern Italy),
Geophysical research abstracts (Online) 16 (2014): 12320–12320.,
Abstract
The aim of this work is to present a methodology, based both on the use ...
The aim of this work is to present a methodology, based both on the use methods of time series analyses and
of geospatial analyses of monthly climatic data (rainfall, wet days, rainfall intensity, and temperature), annual
maximum of short-duration rainfall (from 1 hour to 5 days), historical modification of land use, and population
variations in order to characterise the effects of these variables on the occurrence of landsliding in Daunia
area, located on the eastern margin of the Southern Apennines thrust belt (southern Italy). Rock strata (mainly)
interbedded with clayey marls, clays and silty-clays outcrop in this area. Due to the intense strain history, these
successions are found to be from stratified to deeply fractured, up to be disrupted and floating as blocks in a
clayey matrix. In turn, the clay units are laminated to intensely fissured and characterised by very poor mechanical
properties (Santaloia et al., 2012).
The statistical analyses deal with data coming from published databases, integrated by public and private
documents, referring to a wide time span. Climate data records from 1877 to 2008 were elaborated, in particular
the data coming from sixteen rainfall gauges, ten of which were also thermometric. Moreover, some monthly
indices of rainfall, wet days, rainfall intensity, temperature, and landslide occurrence were introduced to simplify
the analysis of parameters, characterised by spatial and temporal variability. The population records are from the
19th century up to now while the time period of reference for the land use data is from 1930 up to now.
As concerns the landslide events, they were collected from 1918 to 2006. The main source of these records is the
AVI database, an existing Italian database that collects data about damaging floods and landslides from 1918 to
1996. This dataset was integrated up to 2006 by consulting newspapers, scientific publications, technical reports,
written by the researchers of the CNR-IRPI for the Civil Protection, and also documents belonging to a research
project (PS_119; Cotecchia et al. 2010). According to the landslide data collected, the landslide events resulted to
be 175 in the study area.
The trend analyses show that the landslide occurrence was increased with the time, despite of the rainfall and
temperature data are not prone to landsliding. As a matter of fact, the trend of both the monthly rainfall and
the rainfall intensity decreases, and the temperature and the wet days show a positive trend during the period of
reference. The trend of the short-duration rainfall results generally to decrease.
Not existing an evident relationship between climate variability and the increase of landslide occurrence, some
other factors should be considered, as, for instance, the poor mechanical soil properties, the role of anthropogenic
modifications and the mismanagement of risk-prone areas. In this regards, the preliminary results obtained
from the data analyses of the land use and the populations could partly justify the increasing trend of landslide
occurrence.
More details on previous results of this research activity were recently published (Cotecchia et al., 2010; Polemio
and Lonigro, 2011 and 2013; Santaloia et al., 2012).
Conoscenze di geologia tecnica e idrogeologia a supporto della caratterizzazione dei corpi idrici sotterranei
Polemio M. (Autore Principale), Barnaba F., Basso A., Casarano D., Dragone V., Limoni P.P., Santaloia F., Zuffianò L.E., 2014, Conoscenze di geologia tecnica e idrogeologia a supporto della caratterizzazione dei corpi idrici sotterranei,
2014,
Analisi socio-demografica del Sub-Appennino Dauno (provincia di Foggia)
Vittoria Dragone & Mario Parise, 2014, Analisi socio-demografica del Sub-Appennino Dauno (provincia di Foggia),
pp.1–20, 2014,
Abstract
Nell'ambito di ricerche relative all'analisi della franosità nel Sub-Appennino Dauno, ed agli effetti prodotti dall'occorrenza ...
Nell'ambito di ricerche relative all'analisi della franosità nel Sub-Appennino Dauno, ed agli effetti prodotti dall'occorrenza di eventi idrogeologici (frane, alluvioni, erosione, ecc.) sul territorio, anche in relazione agli aspetti sociali ed economici, il presente rapporto tecnico illustra analisi statistiche demografiche condotte su una trentina di comuni dell'area in esame.
Scopo del lavoro è fornire un inquadramento socio-demografico del contesto territoriale del Sub-Appennino Dauno, per potere poi analizzare gli eventuali flussi di popolazione in funzione dei principali eventi storici idrogeologici avvenuti nell'area. Si tratta infatti della porzione di territorio regionale maggiormente interessata da fenomeni franosi (PARISE, 2000, e relative citazioni bibliografiche; PARISE, 2003), che periodicamente pongono all'attenzione della comunità pubblica i rilevanti effetti negativi derivanti da danni e perdite socio-economiche prodotte dalle frane e dai fenomeni alluvionali all'area in esame. Di recente, nell'ambito di vari progetti di ricerca (COTECCHIA et al., 2009; PARISE et al., 2012; VENNARI et al., 2013), l'attenzione del CNR-IRPI si è nuovamente focalizzata sul Sub-Appennino Dauno, e in questa ottica si inserisce il presente rapporto tecnico.
I dati analizzati sono riassunti in una serie di tabelle e grafici. Al fine di semplificare la comprensione del testo, la parte finale consiste in un glossario in cui sono spiegati i principali termini utilizzati.
Enhanced landslide investigations through advanced DInSAR techniques_ The Ivancich case study, Assisi, Italy
Fabiana Calò, Francesca Ardizzone, Raffaele Castaldo, Piernicola Lollino, Pietro Tizzani, Fausto Guzzetti, Riccardo Lanari, Maceo-Giovanni Angeli, Fabrizio Pontoni, Michele Manunta, 2014, Enhanced landslide investigations through advanced DInSAR techniques_ The Ivancich case study, Assisi, Italy,
Remote sensing of environment 142 (2014): 69–82. doi_10.1016/j.rse.2013.11.003,
DOI: 10.1016%2Fj.rse.2013.11.003
Abstract
We extensively exploit advanced Differential SAR Interferometry (DInSAR) techniques for enhanced landslide investigations. We focus ...
We extensively exploit advanced Differential SAR Interferometry (DInSAR) techniques for enhanced landslide investigations. We focus on the Ivancich area, Assisi, Central Italy, which is affected by a deep-seated landslide investigated through in-situ surveys. For this area, large data sets of SAR acquisitions were collected by the C-band ERS-1/2 and ENVISAT sensors (from April 1992 to November 2010), and by the X-band radars of the COSMO-SkyMed (CSK) constellation (from December 2009 to February 2012). We concentrate on the advanced DInSAR technique referred to as Small BAseline Subset (SBAS) approach, benefiting of its capability to generate deformation time series at full spatial resolution and from multi-sensor SAR data. This allows us to present one of thefirstexamples fora landslide area of ERS-1/2--ENVISAT deformation time series exceeding18years. The results allowed characterizing the long-term behaviour of the landslide, and identifying sectors of the unstable slope affected by different deformation dynamics. Analysis of the CSK data set, characterized by a reduced revisit time and improved spatial resolution, resulted in a 15-time larger point density with respect to the ERS-ENVISAT measurements, allowing to investigate nearly all the buildings (and, in many cases, portions of buildings) inthe landslide area. Lastly, we present an innovative modelling approach basedon the effective integration of the DInSAR measurements with traditional geological and geotechnical information, providing deeper insights on the kinematical evolution of the landslide. We consider our analysis a prototype example that can be extended to different geological and geotechnical conditions, providing significant advances in the understanding of ground deformations induced by active landslides.
The geothermal system of Mondragone plain (Campania, Italy)
IORIO M. , Corniello A., Fedi M., Cavuoto G., Chiesa S., Cuoco E., de Franco R., Di Fiore V., Bruno P.P., Ferranti L., Manzella A., Montanari D., Minissale A., Pelosi N., Petruccione E., Polemio M., Rizzo E., 2013, The geothermal system of Mondragone plain (Campania, Italy),
FIST GEOITALIA 2013 - IX Forum Italiano di Scienze della Terra, pp. 119, Pisa, 16-18 Settembre,
Le acque sotterranee e le relazioni con le acque marine
POLEMIO M., 2013, Le acque sotterranee e le relazioni con le acque marine,
Convegno di Studi "Il progetto RITMARE per il risanamento del Mar Piccolo di Taranto",, Sala degli Specchi, Municipio, Taranto, 23/04/2013,
Abstract
Le acque sotterranee e le relazioni con le acque marine ...
Le acque sotterranee e le relazioni con le acque marine
Modelling of coastal karst aquifers for management support_ Study of Salento (Apulia, Italy)
Romanazzi, A.
Polemio, M., 2013, Modelling of coastal karst aquifers for management support_ Study of Salento (Apulia, Italy),
Italian journal of engineering geology and environment (Testo stamp.) 13 (2013): 65–83. doi_10.4408/IJEGE.2013-01.O-05,
DOI: 10.4408%2FIJEGE.2013-01.O-05
Abstract
We are witnessing an increasing concentration of the human population in coastal areas on a ...
We are witnessing an increasing concentration of the human population in coastal areas on a global scale. This trend is associated with a growing demand for water, which is satisfied mainly by using local water resources and groundwater in particular. The phenomenon of seawater intrusion is therefore becoming a more serious problem for most coastal aquifers, whose water resources are obviously at risk of being subject to considerable degradation of quality and quantity. The problem is particularly relevant to karst aquifers, prevalent in the entire Mediterranean area and some Italian regions (Friuli, Sardinia, Sicily and Apulia). The purpose of this paper is to describe research that was performed to conceptualise and numerical model a coastal karst aquifer. This research is significant because of the importance of groundwater resources and the high intensity of changes made to well discharge in the absence of scientifically based management when considering effects on quantity and quality. Salento (Apulia) was selected as a case study, and the changes that occurred over 80 years, starting from the beginning of its exploitation, were characterised. Complex acquisitions, together with climatic, hydrological, geological and agricultural data processing, served as the inputs for a numerical model of variable-density flow and transport created using MODFLOW and SEAWAT codes. In particular, groundwater flow under natural conditions was defined using a simulation in a steady-state condition. Through this simulation, it was possible to define the natural resource quantities and the salinity field, or the quality of groundwater that existed when withdrawals were null or negligible (during the 1930s). The transient simulations that we carried out were focused on the twenty years between 1980 and 1999, with the goal of quantifying the effects of the increased discharge used for drinking, industrial and especially irrigation purposes. The validation of the results was accurate due to the availability of high-quality historical piezometric data stemming from the IRPI-BA databases. The overall results demonstrated that the level of groundwater usage from Salento and the increasing discharge trend, due mainly to the global effect of individual water demand, will require a reversal of trends based on management criteria, defined on an aquifer scale and verified with a numerical model, whose potential can be shown by scientific expertise.
Wind driven capillary-gravity waves on Titan’s lakes_ Hard to detect or non-existent?
A.G. Hayes,R.D. Lorenz, M.A. Donelan, M. Manga, J.I. Lunine, T. Schneider, M.P.Lamb, J.M. Mitchell, W.W. Fischer, S.D. Graves, H.L. Tolman, O. Aharonson, P.J. Encrenaz, B. Ventura, D. Casarano, C. Notarnicola, 2013, Wind driven capillary-gravity waves on Titan’s lakes_ Hard to detect or non-existent?,
44th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2013,
Data from https://intranet.cnr.it/people/
